This theoretical discussion of the migration transition in Asia develops a framework to understand the turning point from labor exporter to labor importer experienced by Hong Kong, Korea, Singapore and Taiwan. The author concludes that the NIE's demand for labor curve shifted rapidly, primarily due to export-led growth of a labor-intensive character. Because these economies are well integrated, improvements in labor market conditions in individual sectors are transmitted to all workers, discouraging emigration. Despite industry's efforts to mitigate wage increases through labor import, new technology or relocation overseas, the rapidly improving domestic earnings opportunities induced the migration transition. -Author

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wage rate export led development China South Korea economics population demography developing country Population Dynamics Developing Countries Asia Far East Eastern Asia Taiwan Korea(South) labour demand economic development Korea, Republic Of Manpower Needs labor migration health care manpower Health Manpower Southeast Asia Article migration Singapore Demographic Factors Southeastern Asia Hong Kong Emigration and Immigration Economic Factors International Migration--determinants Transients and Migrants Human Resources migration transition Asia, Southeastern Korea